The Dance Called the Big Apple

The Big Apple was an American dance craze in 1937. Starting in an African American nightclub in Columbia, South Carolina, it was discovered by local white teens and spread “like wildfire.” A Big Apple choreographed by Frankie Manning is popular with many swing dancers today. Judy Pritchett’s documentary on the Big Apple’s history was shown followed by a talk from Richard Durlach about its roots in his hometown. Lance Benishek taught some authentic Big Apple steps.